Louis XV to XVI Period Coiffeuse in Amaranth and Tulipwood, by Pierre Plée, Paris, C. 1770

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Description

This Louis XV/XVI transitional period coiffeuse (table de toilette), made in Paris during the third quarter of the 18th century, … Read more This Louis XV/XVI transitional period coiffeuse (table de toilette), made in Paris during the third quarter of the 18th century, features central fields of book-matched Brazilian tulipwood framed by richly grained amaranth. The piece retains period gilt-bronze mounts, escutcheons, and a set of period gilt-capped hand-blown toilette bottles.

Constructed over an oak and pine carcass, the top opens to a fitted interior with new light blue moire silk-lined compartments. A gilt-tooled leather writing surface slides open beneath the mirror section.

The underside bears the impressed stamp of Pierre Plée (1742-1810), who was received maître-ébéniste by the Paris guild in 1767, together with a possible faint outline of JME stamp for master cabinetmakers (Jurande Menuisiers Ebénistes’). The table also retains later American ownership and French handling labels documenting part of its history. Prior fittings indicates it was previously restored/fitted by E. Busnel, active in Paris in the late 19th/early 20th centuries. Additional provenance information available upon request.

The table has undergone a careful conservation-minded restoration, preserving its character and function. Structural repairs were completed using traditional materials where appropriate, the finish was cleaned and renewed with hand-applied shellac, missing interior components were reconstructed based on surviving evidence, and the period lock has been restored. A second lock is likely a later replacement.

Good restored antique condition consistent with age and use. Wear, old repairs, and expected movement remain. Additional videos and detailed tours of the piece (and its restoration) are available. Feel free to reach out.

29.5” W (46.5” W when open); 19” D; 27.5” H See less